Water and Food: The Core Components
The absolute foundation of any kit is sustenance. The standard recommendation is to have at least one gallon of water per person, per day, for a minimum of three days. This covers both drinking and basic sanitation. For food, focus on a three-day supply
of non-perishable items that require no cooking or refrigeration. Think ready-to-eat canned meats, fruits, and vegetables; protein or granola bars; dried fruit; and peanut butter. If you have infants or family members with special dietary needs, be sure to pack formula, baby food, or other specific items they require. Don't forget a manual can opener.
Health and First Aid
A well-stocked first-aid kit is non-negotiable. You can buy a pre-assembled one or build your own. Essential items include assorted adhesive bandages, sterile gauze pads, antiseptic wipes, antibiotic ointment, pain relievers, hydrocortisone cream, scissors, and tweezers. Beyond basic first aid, consider a seven-day supply of any prescription medications your family members need. It's also wise to include non-prescription medications like anti-diarrhea medicine and laxatives. If applicable, pack extra eyeglasses, contact lenses, and hearing aids with spare batteries.
Light, Communication, and Tools
In a power outage, you'll need reliable light and information. Pack a durable flashlight and a headlamp, along with plenty of extra batteries. A battery-powered or hand-crank radio, preferably a NOAA Weather Radio, is crucial for receiving emergency broadcasts when cell service and internet are down. To keep your own devices running, include a portable power bank for cell phones. A multi-purpose tool or a simple wrench and pliers can be vital for tasks like turning off utilities if instructed by authorities. Finally, a whistle is a simple but effective tool for signaling for help.
Documents, Cash, and Keys
In an evacuation, you may not have time to gather your most important papers. Prepare a waterproof, portable container with copies of essential documents. This includes birth certificates, passports, social security cards, insurance policies, deeds or leases, and bank account records. Storing digital copies on a password-protected flash drive is also a great backup. While electronic payments are common, they may not work in a widespread power outage. Keep a stash of cash, including small bills, for necessary purchases. An extra set of house and car keys is also a smart addition.
Sanitation and Personal Comfort
Maintaining hygiene is important for health and morale during an emergency. Your kit should include moist towelettes, garbage bags with plastic ties, and toilet paper. Also pack personal hygiene items like soap, toothbrushes, toothpaste, and feminine supplies. For comfort, especially in a shelter or if you live in a cold climate, include a warm blanket or sleeping bag for each person. If you have children, packing books, games, or puzzles can provide a much-needed sense of normalcy and distraction.
Putting It All Together and Maintenance
Once you've gathered your supplies, store them in one or two easy-to-carry containers, like duffel bags or large plastic bins. Make sure every family member knows where the kit is stored. It's also recommended to have smaller kits for your car and at your workplace. Preparedness isn't a one-and-done task. You should review your kit at least once a year to update its contents based on your family's changing needs. Set a semi-annual calendar reminder to check expiration dates on food, water, medications, and batteries, rotating them out as needed.
